LARGE AREA POURS FOR SUSPENDED FLOOR CONSTRUCTION

This paper describes a study undertaken to transfer benefits of large area pours (LAP) technology in suspended floor construction. The current perceptions of LAP technology and the obstacles to its increased use within the UK construction industry were identified, through a nation-wide survey and regional meetings with various sectors of the industry. There was general agreement that the use of LAP provides various benefits, leading to an increase in productivity and reduction in construction time. However two key issues, the contractor/ designer relationship and lack of knowledge of benefits, restricted its wider applications in the practice. A case study, containing sections dealing with the structural background, floor construction and a commentary to enable designers and contractors to develop an appreciation of LAP technology rather than apply the technology by rote, was prepared. The implications of adopting LAP techniques in suspended floor construction are also highlighted within the case study. In addition, a simple design approach/flow chart is presented to help designers and contractors to avoid unnecessary restrictions on suspended slab pour areas during concrete placing.

• INTRODUCTION

• CURRENT PERCEPTIONS OF LAP

• CASE STUDY

• CONCLUSIONS

• ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

• REFERENCES